BENNINGTON — Jane Altes, former vice president for academic affairs and interim president of Empire State College, and Daniel B. Ginsberg, former assistant secretary of the Air Force, will be the commencement speakers at Southern Vermont College on May 10.

College President Karen Gross said Altes and Ginsberg have encouraged civic engagement through government service and through their own community service work.

“Education’s mission, above all else, is to develop thoughtful and engaged citizens in our democratic process,” Gross said. “These two individuals are the embodiment of that mission, serving our nation with extraordinary talent, honor and pride.”

Altes is a private consultant in higher education developing and managing research and administrative projects.

Ginsberg was the official responsible for the overall supervision of manpower and reserve component affairs of the Air Force which included oversight of the Community College of the Air Force and the Air Force Academy.

After they are awarded the honorary degree of humane letters, Altes and Ginsberg will each briefly address the graduating class.